King Charles III, who is currently receiving treatment for cancer and has shown significant progress, recently shared photos from his youth, showcasing his time as a pilot in the British Royal Navy. These archival images highlight his military service and aviation background.
The Royal Family’s Instagram account posted the images, which show the young Prince of Wales. Between 1971 and 1976, he served in the military, where he trained as both a fighter pilot and a helicopter pilot. He also served on various ships, including the missile destroyer Norfolk, and commanded the coastguard minesweeper Brownington.
In 1977, while still the Prince of Wales, King Charles flew a Buccaneer aircraft to the HMS Ark Royal from the Royal Navy base at Yeovilton. This moment is captured in the official post, which reflects his active involvement in the Royal Navy during that time.
The caption also shares that King Charles fondly remembers his time aboard the ship HMS Prince of Wales, where he observed F-35B “Lightning” fighter jets operating from the flight deck. This experience appears to have stayed with him over the years.
These photos and stories emphasize King Charles III’s strong connection to the Royal Navy and his personal experience as a pilot. They serve as a reminder of his dedication to both his military service and his lifelong passion for aviation.